Flag riots continue in Belfast

Euronews

Sixteen police officers have been injured in the latest outbreak of union flag-related rioting in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Street demonstrations have been held in the city every day since December 3rd when the city council decided to fly the union flag on designated days only. The flag symbolises Northern Ireland’s union with the UK.

Trouble flared when police intervened to seperate unionists and nationalists at an intersection in the city. They used plastic bullets and water cannon to break up the rioters but came under sustained attack themselves.

Meanwhile politicians from both sides condemned the violence, saying that it would not change the decision but would tarnish Northern Ireland’s image and repel investors.